14/07/2026
As Political Leader of the People’s National Movement, I assure our members that the PNM has nothing to hide, and we will fight resolutely and relentlessly against any attempt by the UNC to vilify this great movement that has served this nation with distinction for 70 years.
I met with the party’s leadership, and the Chairman was instructed to issue a very clear and detailed statement having regard to the article written by Anna Ramdass on Saturday.
The legacy of our institution will not be tainted by a government that appears more interested in desperate political attacks than addressing the real issues facing our nation.
The people of Trinidad and Tobago must recognise that a Government struggling to answer questions about crime, the economy, unemployment, rising costs, and declining confidence in national leadership has chosen instead to turn its wicked and evil attention towards attacking the headquarters of the People’s National Movement.
What should be at the forefront of everyone’s mind is the absolute failure of the UNC Government to improve the lives of citizens in Trinidad and Tobago. In fact, the quality of life has decreased significantly.
Since the UNC has been in office, unprecedented water challenges have swept through this country, even though they inherited over US $315 million to address our water situation. The UNC has deliberately changed water schedules in PNM areas, denying communities access to water. Now, like a thief in the night, the Government reveals plans to implement AI centres with no apparent solution to address our current challenges.
I am clear that the UNC, a politically homeless, corrupt, and fraudulent party, with alleged human traffickers and individuals on bail within its ranks, in addition to reports of police investigations into the actions of UNC MPs, will not be allowed to rewrite the history of our nation.
Balisier House is not merely a building; it represents the soul of the PNM and the blood, sweat, and tears of generations of citizens who have contributed to this movement.
It represents volunteers, supporters, workers, and patriots who have given their time and resources because they believe in service to country. Under my watch, the PNM will not sit idly by while others attempt to erase these contributions from the political and physical landscape.
The people must ask why there is such urgency to attack the PNM while communities are demanding urgent action on violent crime, families are struggling with the cost of living, and businesses are fighting through economic uncertainty.
Why is the Government more focused on the Opposition than on the problems affecting citizens?
Even as I visit those in the diaspora who are excited and energised for the next election, I am confident that the PNM will return to Government not only to rescue the nation from the ills of the UNC, but also to right the wrongs of a malicious, power-drunk, vindictive UNC Government.
The PNM has survived 70 years of challenges; we have faced criticism and endured political attacks; and every time, we have emerged stronger because our foundation is built on people, principles, and service to Trinidad and Tobago.
As Leader of the PNM, I will continue to defend our party, our democracy, and the right of citizens to have a strong Opposition that holds Government accountable.
No amount of malicious distraction can mask the reality, the UNC is a failed Government on a witch hunt, desperate to cling to the political power that has already slipped from their hands.
The Government is claiming that there is no political involvement in this vicious and unwarranted attack on the People’s National Movement.
However, we take note that the newspaper article regarding this matter states that this entire issue is based on a valuation report commissioned by the politically appointed UNC Attorney General , which appears to form the basis of this vicious attack.
The PNM is not afraid, we stand on truth, dignity, and justice; the UNC will never succeed in its attempt to bury the Balisier. Whether you try to cut it or burn it, the Balisier always grows back stronger, the UNC would do well to take careful note of this fact.
Pennelope Beckles MP
Leader of the Opposition
Political Leader of the People’s National Movement
13 July 2026
